I Compared The Top Two Strollers So You Don't Have To—Here Are My Thoughts
- Tina Singe
- Nov 5, 2024
- 3 min read
Alright, dads—let’s talk strollers. You’d think picking a stroller would be a straightforward decision, right? Wrong. Between price tags, setup options, and a laundry list of features that sound like they were taken straight from a luxury SUV, I’ve found myself deep-diving into reviews, feature lists, and accessory catalogs.
It all boiled down to two big names: Mockingbird and UPPAbaby.Here’s my take on both:
If price and value matter…Mockingbird
Let’s be honest—strollers are a big investment. I wanted something well-built and reliable but didn’t want to pay a small fortune for a feature I’d barely use. The Mockingbird Double Stroller clocks in at about $450, a fraction of what you’d shell out for the UPPAbaby Vista V2.
UPPAbaby is nice, don’t get me wrong, but with a price that can creep up to nearly double that of the Mockingbird, I had to ask myself: what exactly was I paying for?
If you want a stroller that’ll grow with your kids…Mockingbird
When baby #2 arrives, being able to easily expand your stroller can be a lifesaver. Mockingbird’s single-to-double setup was a breeze to figure out. Just grab the Mockingbird 2nd Seat Kit (sold separately) and you’ve got a functional, sturdy double stroller. Plus, Mockingbird’s 22+ seating arrangements allow me to adjust as my kids grow, giving me options for tandem, side-by-side, and more, making every outing flexible and easy to manage.
UPPAbaby also converts from single to double, but adding on a second seat gets tricky. You’ll need the extra RumbleSeat, which sits lower and can create awkward spacing, limiting the arrangement options.
If you like to geek out over suspension systems…UPPAbaby
Both strollers bring some impressive tech to the table when it comes to ride quality. Mockingbird’s all-wheel suspension and shock-absorbing, never-flat tires give my kids a smooth, steady ride even on uneven sidewalks. The reversible, removable seat makes it easy to change direction and keep my toddler entertained as we stroll. It’s got that high-end feel without the high-end price tag.
UPPAbaby’s Vista V2 takes this one by a small margin, though, thanks to its premium suspension system that’s ultra-smooth on all surfaces.
If you like something that’s easy to use…Mockingbird
When I’m holding a squirmy toddler and balancing the baby in a car seat, I need a stroller that’s as simple to fold as possible. Both strollers offer a one-hand fold feature and auto-lock functionality, so I didn’t have to wrestle with either. But there was a clear winner in weight and bulk: Mockingbird’s lightweight, flexible design means it folds compactly and stands upright, fitting easily in the trunk. And since its handlebar is adjustable, my wife and I can switch who pushes without any backaches from crouching or reaching.
UPPAbaby does a fine job too, but the Vista V2 is bulkier, meaning it’s tougher to lug around—especially when juggling two little ones. And although it has an adjustable handle, the stroller’s heavier weight makes for a workout if you’re handling multiple bags or kids at once.
If compatibility matters…Mockingbird
Mockingbird has a trick up its sleeve here with compatibility. Its Car Seat Adapter pairs with over 40 top infant car seats, meaning no scrambling to find compatible gear. Add to that a canopy with UPF 50+ protection (plus a peekaboo window), an extra-large 25-lb storage basket, and an adjustable footrest with a handy crumb catcher. These add-ons don’t just feel like extras—they’re practical for everyday use.
UPPAbaby does have a few perks here, offering a bassinet option that’s sleep-certified for overnight use. However, it doesn’t have quite the same variety or flexibility in car seat adapters, making Mockingbird’s open compatibility hard to beat for parents looking to customize and streamline their setup.
The Final Verdict: Mockingbird Takes the Win
After stacking them up side by side, Mockingbird takes the crown in my book. The Mockingbird Double Stroller’s value, flexibility, and range of compatible accessories make it the ideal choice for a dad who wants the best for his kids without dropping a small fortune. It fits our family’s needs perfectly with that single-to-double convenience, a robust setup, and features that help keep the day moving with ease.
So for dads looking to take something off their wife’s plate… go ahead and get this stroller.